St. Cloud Utility Purchase Draws Another Step Closer

AROUND CENTRAL FLORIDA

April 9, 1997

The Orlando Utilities Commission Tuesday voted unanimously to take over management of the St. Cloud electric company. If St. Cloud approves at a City Council meeting Thursday night, the switch could occur May 1.

OUC would pay St. Cloud at least $2.3 million annually in exchange for the utility's income and expenses. Accountants of the Orlando-owned water and electric company estimate OUC will make about $1 million a year on the deal.

St. Cloud residents would see their rates drop by about $2 a month, with further cuts possible as OUC's less expensive ways of doing business become more entrenched.